Adena begins 2024 with wage increases and commendations

Adena Village Council began their January meeting by swearing in two council members and mayor Brenda Roski. The two council members, Beth Burke and Marla Bechtel, were re-elected last November, as was Roski. Police Chief Art Fowler administered the oath of office.

Council member R.J. Konkoleski was nominated and voted council president.

Roski shared some encouraging words for council, “It’s been four years since I first sat in this chair and I am so proud of this council.” She explained that when she began, Adena’s finances were deep in the negative. “The state was watching us like a hawk, they were ready to take us over, but look at us today. Why did that happen? Because we’re very careful with the finances, we’re working together, and I wouldn’t trade any of you for anything. You’re a great council and I thank you. We have so many good things coming up in the future. Personally, I want to thank you for everything you’ve done.”

She also personally thanked the village solicitor, Adam Martello, for doing a good job in keeping the village in line legally for years.

“We need to acknowledge the effort you’re putting into your position,” Konkoleski said to Roski. “We have never had a mayor who keeps office hours like a full-time employee in this town. That’s why we have a road on Church Hill and that’s why we’re getting water meters and lines and grants, because you’re putting in the time and effort.”

Fowler handed out his police report for December and included a breakdown of last year’s calls as well.

In 2023, there were a total of 273 calls in the village of Adena. Most of these were special event calls for police to have a presence in case anything went wrong such as school safety stops and community events. However, the department did respond to several traffic stops, vandalism calls, and multiple welfare checks.

“Been really busy so far this month,” he said. “Today I was up on Church Hill regarding a nuisance property. I’m going to be turning that over to the environmental officer at the sheriff’s office, given the amount of trash that is in front of the residence. I was at another residence today regarding loose dogs and trash at their place. I gave them two weeks to work on getting their affairs in order.”

Roski commended Fowler for his efforts throughout the village. “I’m very pleased with our police. I’m very happy. Art, I just want to take the time to thank you for helping us with everything you have.”

She said he does an outstanding job and is always professional.

Council discussed wage increases for several village employees. Roski pointed out that minimum wage has increased by several percentage points and they should be increasing wages appropriately as well. She also pointed out that these employees often go above and beyond in their services to the village, specifically mentioning Judy Whiting, who’s efforts have garnered several large grants for the village. Council agreed with this assessment and the wage increases were accepted.